US condemns killing of Indian Peacekeepers

WASHINGTON: Strongly condemning the killing of Indian peacekeepers in South Sudan, the United States has applauded India as a leading supporter of UN peacekeeping operations in the conflict prone zones.

The country has also asked the Government of South Sudan to conduct an investigation and ensure that the perpetrators are brought swiftly to justice.

“We condemn in the strongest terms today’s attack by unknown assailants on the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) convoy carrying peacekeepers and civilians in the State of Jonglei, which resulted in the deaths of five Indian soldiers along with at least seven civilians and injuries to several more UNMISS personnel,” the State Department spokesperson, Patrick Ventrell, said yesterday.

“We convey our sympathies to the families and friends of those killed and injured in the attack, to UNMISS, and the Department of Peacekeeping Operations, as well as to the Government of India,” he said.

The United States has urged restraint among the affected communities of the region and demanded a full investigation into the attack, Ventrell said.

“We reiterate our strong support for UNMISS which continues to carry out its mandate with admiral determination and dedication, and we refer you to the United Nations for additional details on the attack,” the US official said.

Five Indian Army personnel, including a Lt Colonel were killed and four injured during a UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan when their 32-member convoy was attacked yesterday.

Posted by NewsNET Desk
on April 10, 2013. Filed under Breaking News,USA.
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